Members of the Wessington Springs FCCLA chapter earned individual recognition, competitive awards and leadership opportunities during the South Dakota FCCLA State Leadership Conference held this spring in Sioux Falls.
The chapter's success began earlier in the year when 10 senior FCCLA members competed in STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) Events and Knowledge Bowl competition during the Region 3 FCCLA meeting in Mitchell in January. Members participated in both junior and senior divisions of the Knowledge Bowl, with the senior team capturing first place honors and advancing to state competition.
At the state conference, 22 senior FCCLA members represented Wessington Springs in a variety of STAR Events, which allow students to apply leadership and career-readiness skills through competitive projects and presentations. Chapter members brought home a total of five silver ratings and six bronze ratings.
The Region 3 Senior Knowledge Bowl team also competed at the state level. Team members included Kaitlyn Braun, Hayes Havlik, Tregen Jensen, Mercedes Jones and Sydney Richardson.
Several Wessington Springs students were recognized during the conference banquet for their contributions to the chapter throughout the year. Tierney Knipfer received the Outstanding Officer Award, while Remie Roduner was named Outstanding 12th Grade Member. Kendall Kolousek earned Outstanding 11th Grade Member honors, Raygen Teveldal was recognized as Outstanding 10th Grade Member and Kenzie Kolousek was named Outstanding 9th Grade Member.
The chapter also announced its officer team for the 2026-27 school year. Officers include: President — Kendall Kolousek Vice President — Lily Roesler Secretary — Jewel McGeough Treasurer — Brooklyn Caffee Historian — Jalene Reiner Vice President of Public Relations — Tenley Olinger Vice President of Projects — Jaspur Gran Vice President of Activities — Tierney Knipfer Vice President of Community Service — Eiza Ciciliano Parliamentarian — Sutten Jensen FCCLA members will spend the coming year leading chapter activities, service projects and leadership development opportunities while continuing the organization's mission of preparing students for careers, family leadership and community involvement.